Top RBs entering the NFL draft

April 17, 2013 8:35 AM

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Eddie Lacy, 5-11, 231, 4.59, Alabama

The best running back in the country last season when the Tide won the national title. He played behind an outstanding offensive line. He’s powerful and explosive with good vision. He moves the pile. Knows how to keep his legs churning. He’s also a decent receiver who can help in that manner. Should go in the first round. less

Eddie Lacy, 5-11, 231, 4.59, Alabama

The best running back in the country last season when the Tide won the national title. He played behind an outstanding offensive line. He’s powerful and explosive with ... more

If he had come out a year ago, he would have been a first-round pick. He’s the NCAA career touchdown leader. He works hard, has good vision and balance. When he hits the hole, he has terrific acceleration. Breaks tackles in the open field. Lacks great speed and has a lot of wear and tear on his tires. Should go in the second round. less

Montee Ball, 5-11, 214, 4.56, Wisconsin

If he had come out a year ago, he would have been a first-round pick. He’s the NCAA career touchdown leader. He works hard, has good vision and balance. When he hits ... more

The fastest of the top prospects and also the most elusive. He’s a four-year starter who ran for 1,734 yards and scored 12 touchdowns last season. An excellent receiver who runs well after the catch. Runs between the tackles well for a player his size but also bounces outside in a hurry. Terrific balance. Should go in the second round. less

Johnathan Franklin, 5-10, 205, 4.46, UCLA

The fastest of the top prospects and also the most elusive. He’s a four-year starter who ran for 1,734 yards and scored 12 touchdowns last season. An excellent ... more

A three-year starter who rushed for 1,793 yards and compiled 2,024 all-purpose yards. The largest of the top runners in the draft also has good speed. He’s strong but agile and has superb balance. A back his size should be more physical and rely less on finesse moves. He’s a good receiver. Should go in the second or third round. less

Le’Veon Bell, 6-2, 230, 4.56, Michigan State

A three-year starter who rushed for 1,793 yards and compiled 2,024 all-purpose yards. The largest of the top runners in the draft also has good speed. He’s ... more

He wouldn’t be a sleeper if he hadn’t blown out a knee last season. If he hadn’t been injured, he’d be a first-round pick. The team that takes him should give him plenty of time to recuperate. He’s got good vision, excellent balance and an uncanny burst when he hits the hole. He should go in the fourth round. less